It comes as no surprise that so many Brits are considering moving to New Zealand, it is a truly stunning country. This small island is home to a dazzling variety of landscapes, from tropical beaches to snowcapped mountains to barren volcanic plains. You can’t go far in New Zealand without stumbling across a view that is truly awe-inspiring.

If you are applying for New Zealand visas to make your move here permanently, perhaps you are narrowing down your choices for where to live. Let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful places in New Zealand:

Queenstown

The “Adventure Capital of New Zealand” on the South Island is surrounded by stunning snowcapped mountain peaks and the clear blue waters of Lake Wakatipu. In this gorgeous lakeside location visitors can enjoy everything from relaxing river cruises to jet boating to fly fishing. As well as boasting stunning natural surroundings, the town of Queenstown also has a lot to offer with a lively bar scene, excellent fine dining restaurants and plenty of great events and festivals.

Kaikoura

Just a few hours north of Christchurch, the lovely seaside town of Kaikoura is incredibly easy on the eyes. Surrounded by both mountains and sea, it is a great place to take a boat trip and enjoy some of the best whale, seal and dolphin spotting in the world. The name Kaikoura is Maori for “eat crayfish” and the town’s culinary specialty can be enjoyed fresh from local restaurants and food trucks.

Napier

The seaside city of Napier, on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1931. The city was rebuilt completely in the hottest style of the time – Art Deco. It’s one of the most well preserved and extensive collections of Art Deco buildings in the world. Take a walk through the city center and check out the bright pastel facades decorated with starbursts, ziggurats, fountains and geometric patterns. If you visit during the Art Deco Festival in February you will see the town decked out in full 1930s glory with vintage clothing, retro music and old cars on display.

Raglan

If you are looking for a naturally gorgeous ßplace to hang out and surf, Raglan is a dream come true. This laid back coastal community is known for its pristine beaches and chilled out vibe. Hang out at the laid back cafes, bars and art galleries, take a walk through historic Maori gardens, hike to the top of Bridal Veil Falls or traverse the neighboring Te Toto Gorge.

Fielding

This lovely picturesque town is known for its stunning Edwardian architecture, historic museum collections and boutique shopping. It has won the “Most Beautiful Town Award” from Keep New Zealand Beautiful a total of 14 times. Take a walk through the colourful city center – the walls of the buildings are adorned with beautiful murals painted by local artist Eric Brew.

Wanaka

Beautiful Wanaka has become a base for adventure travelers exploring the unspoiled nature of the South Island. It is located near the pristine Mount Aspiring National Park and two tranquil alpine lakes. The waterfalls, glaciers and peaks of the park were used as the scenery of Middle Earth in the Lord of the Rings trilogy – so go on an epic quest of your own and enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing or boating.

The Milford Track

If you love hiking and the great outdoors, the Milford track will be an unforgettable walking adventure. You must book ahead for the trail, as there are only a limited number of spots available every year. It’s worth the effort, as the “Finest Walk in the World” will certainly delight you with jaw-dropping views around every corner. You’ll stroll past river crossings and sheer mountain walls on either side, streaked with waterfalls. You can even climb on the rocks behind the falls at the mossy basin at the bottom of Sutherland Falls.

These are just a few of the most stunningly beautiful places that New Zealand has to offer. From breathtaking wilderness to small peaceful seaside towns, New Zealand is a treat for the eyes at every turn. If you are considering making a move to this gorgeous country, you’ll have so many stunning landscapes and lovely communities to explore.